When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is extensive, it is best to speak with an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.

An impact crack is the most popular type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and can progress to complete breaks.

A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

Examine the seal between your double glazed window repairs near me-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same it can be difficult to put the new one into its slot and double glazed window repairs Near me could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window repairs near me frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.